Western Mono (Monache) bottleneck basket
Western Mono (Monache) bottleneck basket
6 3/8" diameter x 3" high
coiled out of sedge and dyed bracken fern root on a grass foundation
21 stitches per inch and 8 coils per inch
excellent condition with a few missing stitches, as is common for a basket of this age.
circa 1900-1920s
ex: Marcy Burns American Indian Arts; Private Collection
$2400.
(b0994)
The Western Mono were exceptional basket weavers. Living in the Sierra Nevada region and migrating seasonally while following game, they traded with the Foothill Yokuts. The coiled baskets of both groups are similar, utilizing similar weaving materials and weaving similar designs. However, the Mono wove in a leftward direction while the Foothill Yokuts wove to the right, and the Mono sometimes incorporated a vertical design. Mono bottleneck baskets often have concentric bands of rattlesnake design.
This Mono bottleneck basket is very finely woven and well-shaped. Its excellent condition and beautiful patina further add to its desirability. It is being offered at a very reasonable price.